Program Overview

Social Service Diploma

Overview

Gain valuable insights into social justice to support and empower individuals, families, and communities. Through community partnerships, research opportunities, and hands-on practicums, you'll develop best practices and build a professional network in the social service field.

Location

Comox Valley

Length

2 years

Delivery

In-person, full-time

Admission Requirements

• C+ in English 12 or equivalent or successful English assessment
• Completed 20 hours volunteer work and HSW Professional Reference Form
• Signed Human Services Requisite Skills and Abilities document
• 300-word HSW Letter of Intent for coming into the program and career goals

Before Classes Begin

• Attend a group information session
• Hold a Standard First Aid Certification with CPR Level C that will remain valid through to the end of the program
• Complete the Provincial Violence Prevention Curriculum (PVPC) online through the Learning Hub
• Complete a Personal Immunization form
• Submit a Criminal Record Check permission form

Course Requirements

Year 1

• One of the following:
  • ENG - 115 Essay Writing and Critical Analysis
  • ENG - 116 Essay Writing & Indigenous Perspectives
• Plus:
  • SSW - 120 Foundations of Social Service Practice
  • SSW - 121 Interpersonal Communications
  • SSW - 122 Social Welfare in Canada
  • SSW - 123 Advanced Interpersonal Skills Practice
  • PSY - 250 Human Development from Conception Through Childhood
  • PSY - 251 Human Development from Adolescence Through Adulthood
  • SSW - 150 Social Services Practice Experience I
• Plus 3 electives totaling 9 credits chosen from English, Humanities, or Social Science courses that transfer to a BC degree-granting institution

Year 2

• 8 courses chosen from the following:
  • SSW - 201 Family Relationships
  • SSW - 203 Conflict Management
  • SSW - 204 Program Planning, Development and Implementation
  • SSW - 205 Introduction to Group Work Practice
  • SSW - 206 Self Care in Human Services
  • SSW - 207 Law and Social Service
  • SSW - 208 Social Work Practice in Mental Health and Addictions
  • SSW - 209 Contemporary Perspectives on Substance Abuse
  • SSW - 210 Community Development
• Plus:
  • SSW - 250 Advanced Practice Experience Social Services
• Plus 2 electives totaling 6 credits chosen from English, Humanities, or Social Science courses that transfer to a BC degree-granting institution

Completion Requirements

• A letter grade of C (60%) or better in all classes
• A letter grade of P (Pass) in all Practicum courses
• Students must receive a letter grade of C (60%) or better in all core (SSW and PSY 250 and PSY 251) courses to be promoted from one term to the next term

Practicum

Practicum opportunities are key to the program, helping you integrate theory with practical experience while working with vulnerable populations. You’ll receive mentorship from industry leaders and guidance as you work directly with vulnerable populations.

Careers

As a graduate, you’ll be prepared to support individuals with financial assistance, family support, employment, life skills, and more. Potential roles include family support worker, outreach worker, transition house counselor, employment counselor, addictions support worker, youth worker, community development worker, crisis intervention counselor, and mental health worker.

Costs

Domestic

• Tuition: $7,780
• Student Union: $480
• Learner Resource: $410
• Health and Dental: $570
• Total: $9,240

International

• Tuition: $34,780
• Student Union: $480
• Learner Resource: $410
• Health and Dental: $570
• Student Services Fee: $2,150
• Total: $38,390

Funding

Financial support is available. Learn more about financial aid and awards.